Things to Do in Whitefish, MT
If you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and stunning mountain views, Whitefish, MT is the perfect destination. From thrilling winter sports to relaxing lake activities in the summer, there’s no shortage of things to do in Whitefish, MT. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone who just wants to unwind, this beautiful town has something for everyone.
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Whitefish, MT Map
Location: Whitefish, MT is located in the northwestern part of Montana, near the Canadian border. It’s about 25 miles southwest of the larger city of Kalispell and is situated at the edge of the stunning Flathead National Forest. The town is also a gateway to the iconic Glacier National Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to both the mountains and Whitefish Lake offers visitors a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.
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How to get there
Reaching Whitefish, MT is relatively straightforward, whether you’re coming by car, plane, or bus. Here’s how you can get there:
By Air: The closest airport to Whitefish is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, about 20 miles from Whitefish. The airport is served by several major airlines with direct flights from cities like Seattle, Minneapolis, Denver, and Salt Lake City. Once you land, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Whitefish.
By Car: Whitefish is easily accessible by road. If you’re driving, you can take U.S. Highway 93 from Kalispell or U.S. Highway 2 from the east. The town is about a 4-hour drive north of Missoula, or a 6-hour drive west from Billings, MT. The drive offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it an enjoyable trip.
By Bus: You can also reach Whitefish by bus. Greyhound and Amtrak provide services that stop in Whitefish. The Amtrak station in town offers a scenic route, especially if you’re coming from the West Coast. The bus station is located near downtown, making it convenient to get to local accommodations.
By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops in Whitefish, connecting the town with major cities like Chicago, Seattle, and Portland. The train ride through the Northern Rockies is known for its breathtaking views and is a great way to see the landscape.
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1. Hit the Slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Okay, let’s start with the obvious one—if you love winter sports, Whitefish Mountain Resort is the place to be. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, this resort offers something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. But even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, the resort offers some epic snowshoeing trails and an alpine slide in the summer that’ll give you that “wow” moment.
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2. Explore Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park
No visit to Whitefish is complete without heading over to Glacier National Park. It’s right there on your doorstep, with jaw-dropping views, glacial lakes, and an endless list of trails. You can hike along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, take a boat ride across Lake McDonald, or just spend time soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty. Seriously, this place is like a living postcard, and you can’t help but fall in love with it.
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3. Stroll Through Downtown Whitefish
The downtown area of Whitefish is super walkable and absolutely charming. You’ll find plenty of cute shops, cozy cafés, and unique restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for some local art, a delicious meal, or just grabbing a coffee to watch the world go by, downtown has a laid-back vibe that’s hard to resist. Don’t miss a visit to the Whitefish Lake State Park nearby if you want to kick back by the water for a bit.
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4. Go for a Hike at Whitefish Lake
Whitefish Lake
Speaking of Whitefish Lake, it’s a must-see. In the summer, the lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing on the shore with a good book. If you’re up for it, there’s a fantastic hike around the lake that offers gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It’s the perfect way to spend a peaceful day outdoors, especially if you want a little break from all the adventure.
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5. Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Whitefish Lake
Kayaking in the lake
If you’re into water sports, Whitefish Lake is a great place to get your paddle on. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across the clear waters with the mountains towering above you. It’s super chill and gives you a completely different view of the surrounding landscape. Plus, it’s one of those experiences that’s just as enjoyable whether you’re with friends, family, or flying solo.
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6. Enjoy the Nightlife and Local Brews
After a long day of adventuring, head into town for some local nightlife. Whitefish has a surprisingly vibrant scene for a small town. You’ll find some great local bars, live music, and of course, Montana’s famous craft beers. If you’re into trying something new, hit up a brewery like the Great Northern Brewing Co. for some unique brews. It’s the perfect way to unwind and swap stories with locals or other visitors.
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7. Visit the Whitefish Depot
If you’re a history buff or just love cool old buildings, the Whitefish Depot is worth a stop. Built in the early 1900s, this train station is an architectural gem and gives you a glimpse into the town’s past. It’s also still an active station, so you can watch the trains roll by, which feels pretty nostalgic.
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8. Summer Fun at the Whitefish Farmers Market
Whitefish Farmers Market
If you happen to be in Whitefish during the summer, the local farmers market is a must-see. It’s the perfect place to snag some fresh produce, local honey, homemade candles, and more. You can also grab a bite from the food trucks that line the market, offering everything from tacos to wood-fired pizza.
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9. Wildlife Watching
Wildlife Watching
Whitefish is an outdoor paradise, and the wildlife is one of the highlights. If you’re lucky (or just really patient), you might spot a moose, elk, or even a bear while hiking or exploring the surrounding forests. There are also plenty of birdwatching opportunities—bald eagles and osprey are frequently seen soaring overhead.
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10. Relax at the Whitefish Lake Golf Club
Whitefish Lake Golf Club
For those looking for a more laid-back activity, the Whitefish Lake Golf Club is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some incredible views while hitting a few balls. The course is beautiful and challenging, and the atmosphere is super relaxed—perfect for an afternoon of golf with friends or family.
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Final Thoughts
No matter the season, there are always exciting and unique things to do in Whitefish MT. From exploring Glacier National Park to enjoying local shops and eateries, this mountain town will leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure—you won’t regret experiencing all that Whitefish has to offer.
How does this sound? I aimed for it to feel like you’re just chatting with friends about a place you really enjoy. Let me know if you want any tweaks!
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FAQs
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Q: What are the best things to do in Whitefish, MT?
A: The best things to do in Whitefish, MT, include skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort, exploring Glacier National Park, and enjoying local shops and restaurants.
Q: What is there to do in Whitefish, MT in the summer?
A: In summer, you can hike around Whitefish Lake, go paddleboarding, visit the farmers market, and explore the breathtaking views at Glacier National Park.
Q: Can you ski in Whitefish, MT?
A: Yes! Whitefish Mountain Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain during the winter season.
Q: What is Whitefish, MT known for?
A: Whitefish, MT is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, and its charming downtown full of local shops and restaurants.
Q: Is Whitefish, MT good for families?
A: Absolutely! Whitefish, MT has family-friendly activities like skiing, hiking, lake adventures, and a quaint town atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing getaway.
